Following a string of severe weather over the weekend in Mississippi, officials have identified the second of two Mississippians who lost their lives in the storms.
Mississippi Public Service Commission (MPSC) officials confirmed the death of Geneva Karr, 68, of Lowndes County, after her home lost power, inducing a medical emergency when she was left without her external oxygen supply. She passed away early Sunday morning as a result.
Karr reportedly called 911 at 12:40 a.m. on Sunday, but she was found unresponsive outside her home when first responders arrived at the scene. Lowndes County Coroner Greg Merchant says Karr had a long medical history and relied on daily home oxygen.
I am saddened to announce that a second fatality has been reported, this time in Lowndes County.
Mississippi is praying for the individual who lost their life and for their family.
— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) December 29, 2024
MPSC Commissioners Chris Brown, De’Keither Stamps, and Wayne released the following joint state following the report:
“The Mississippi Public Service Commission wishes to express its heartfelt condolences to the family of Ms. Geneva Karr who tragically passed away after losing power at her home during the recent storm while dependent on home oxygen. This heartbreaking incident serves as a distressing reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by many residents during extreme weather conditions.
This devastating event underscores the necessity for enhanced preparedness and responsiveness in our communities, particularly for those with critical medical needs. We urge communities to come together in solidarity during such crises. We encourage neighbors to check on one another, especially those who may be vulnerable or reliant on medical devices.
As we honor the memory of those we have lost during this time in Mississippi and our neighboring states, this Commission is dedicated to working to implement future preventative strategies aimed at safeguarding the well-being of all Mississippians before, during, and after severe weather events.”
18-year-old Ty’Keria Rogers, a senior at Natchez High School, also lost her life in the storm. A candlelight vigil will be held Monday at 5:30 p.m. at the school remembering the life of Rogers.
A total of 10 people were injured, two died, and more than 100 homes were damaged in the weekend tempest.
